Prophetstown-Echo-12-16-2025

Page 1


KIWANIS CLUB RECEIVES

DONATION FROM BANK

The Fulton Kiwanis club recently received a $500 donation from c ommunity state b ank. This is the bank’s 50th anniversary, and bank officials are thanking the communities they serve. The branches of the bank were able to choose a recipient to receive a donation, and the Fulton branch chose the Fulton Kiwanis club. The club recently finished shopping for 64 children whose families were in need of assistance this year. b ank manager dan cox (center) presented the check to Kiwanians david Frantz and b arb Frantz.

WHAT’S INSIDE

Glimpses of the Past

William “bill’ baker, sharon braun, richard a. buikema, donald Lee dykema, Larry T. Frederick, Ted allen Jonsson, dr. douglas K. Nelson, evelyn Kay Pessman, roger “dodge” L. Williams sr. / 4, 6

Photo provided by the Fulton Kiwanis club

UNLIMITED DIGITAL ACCESS

Included in every subscription

Activate your digital access today. Visit: ShawLocal.com/digital-activation Call: 866-979-1053

OFFICE

113-115 Peoria Ave. Dixon, IL 61021

833-584-NEWS

SUBSCRIPTIONS

56 weeks – $56 108 weeks – $108

To subscribe, make a payment or discuss your delivery, call 866-979-1053

Monday through Friday or send an email to customer-support@shawmedia.com.

CLASSIFIED SALES

classified@shawlocal.com

Classified Ad Deadline: Thursday at 4 p.m.

HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com

LEGAL NOTICES sauklegals@shawlocal.com

OBITUARIES

saukobits@shawlocal.com

Deadline for obituaries is Monday at 9 a.m.

NEWS wnsnews@shawmedia.com

Retail Advertising info@shawmediamarketing.com

Publisher Jennifer Heintzelman 815-632-2502 jheintzelman@shawmedia.com

The PROHETSTOWN ECHO (USPS No. 447-900) is published weekly by Sauk Valley Media, Shaw Media.

Periodical postage paid at Prophetstown, IL 61277

POSTMASTER

Send address changes to: Shaw Media

P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081

All rights reserved. Copyright 2025

HOW ARE WE DOING?

We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.

Online marketplace scams – a hit and a miss

SENIORS VS. CRIME

Randy Meier

A retired man stirred by a sense of nostalgia, looking to buy a classic restored muscle car, just like the model of the first car he bought in 1970.

A woman who decided its time to get rid of her home air purifier by offering it for sale.

What do these two people have in common?

Both turned to online marketplaces, specifically Facebook, to find a classic car for sale in the first case, and to locate a buyer for the purifier in the second case. And they both found themselves tangled up with scammers prowling these online marketplaces.

The fellow looking for the classic car, Archie, looked for a long time to find a 1970 Pontiac GTO. Then he saw a Facebook ad featuring a perfect-looking model, offered by a dealership in Maine. And priced to sell. Archie knew most models of that condition and vintage ran from $60,000 to $90,000. This one was offered for less than $50,000. The seller sent photos, copies of the title and a Lemon Squad inspection report.

Archie checked and found the Maine dealership was for real. It maintained a website which showed the GTO in its inventory. Archie nego -

tiated and agreed to wire the payment from his bank to the seller’s account. The seller even sent a photo of the GTO loaded in an enclosed trailer, ready for shipment from Maine to Iowa. An excited Archie waited for the promised delivery. Which didn’t come.

Archie called the seller, who explained the delay with a claim of another delivery in Pittsburgh with the same trailer. So Archie waited. And waited. The GTO never arrived. More research by Archie and his friends found the same GTO actually owned by someone in Massachusetts, not for sale. The title and Lemon Squad reports were forgeries. The car dealership website was cloned, and the dealership was “permanently closed.” And Archie’s money is gone. Archie tells us, “I acted too fast. I saw something and it struck me. I wanted the car. I thought it checked out because they sent me the title and the inspection report.”

Archie’s advice to anyone looking to buy a classic or collectible car from an online ad is “You need to see in person what you’re buying.”

A Clinton man with decades of experience trading in collectible cars, motorcycles, and bicycles sums up his advice: “You need to lay eyes on what you’re buying or get someone you trust to do the same. No exceptions.”

What about Sheryl, the woman selling her air purifier on Facebook Marketplace? Her ad got no traction for weeks. Then a buyer contacted her, agreeing to the asking price, and

wanting to pay through Venmo, the peer-to-peer mobile payment service.

The buyer claimed she sent the payment by Venmo, then claimed Venmo wanted the buyer to send an additional $300 “to verify her transaction.” Sheryl even received several emails from Venmo, supporting the buyer’s version of money transfer. Although tempted, Sheryl knew enough about Venmo to sense a scam and hesitated.

She asked for advice from law enforcement. Then the buyer demanded her $300 overpayment paid back, with Bitcoin or gift cards. Sheryl knew it was a scam.

Online marketplaces can offer an easy and convenient method for us to buy and sell. We just need to remember criminals are adept and skillful at creating phony ads promoting sales, and phony profiles of prospective buyers.

There’s two surefire ways to avoid these scams:

• Face to face transactions, preferably in a public place

• Cash only

Contact Seniors vs. Crime

Let me know about scams, fraud, or other crookedness you run across. Most of what I learn, I learn from you. Contact me at Seniors vs. Crime, Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, 563-2429211, extension 4433, or email me at randymeier@gapa911.us.

• Randy Meier is the director of Seniors vs. Crime.

Catch a concert in Fulton, play Scrabble in Morrison

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Here’s a list of upcoming things to do in Fulton, Morrison, Albany and Prophetstown:

• Travis Hosette performance at the Windmill Cultural Center in Fulton: The Volunteer Educators at the Windmill Cultural Center in Fulton will host a Wild Winter Wednesday musical program with Travis Hosette on Dec. 17. Hosette impersonates and sings Sinatra-like vocals professionally for all sorts of special events throughout eastern Iowa, western Illinois, and as far away as Milwaukee and Cincinnati. Doors

open at 8:30 a.m. with coffee, hot cider and Mill treats. The program begins about 9:15 a.m. The building is handicap accessible. The program is free and open to the public. The Windmill Cultural Center is located at 111 10th Ave., Fulton.

• The Symphony of Lights: Drive through the Symphony of Lights from now through Dec. 30 at Eagle Point Park in Clinton, Iowa. The display can be viewed Monday to Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m. Admission is $10 per vehicle (up to 10 passengers) or $2 per person for larger vehicles.

• Christmas caroling in Albany: Commu -

nity Christmas caroling begins at 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22. Meet at the Shell Station in Albany.

• Prophetstown library hosts Dungeons and Dragons play : The role-playing game club meets from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. every Monday at the Henry C. Adams Memorial Library. This is for anyone ages 10 and older. All materials will be available unless you would like to bring your own dice, pencils, books, etc. Stop by or call the library at 309-714-2699 with any questions.

• Play Scrabble in Morrison: Play the popular game from 1 to 3 p.m. every Wednesday at the Community Room at Odell Public Library in Morrison.

SVCC’s 1st Impact Program students arrive

Four years after Sauk Valley Community College launched its earned-tuition program, the community is noticing its impact.

The Impact Program allows high school students who graduate in SVCC’s district – Whiteside, Lee, and parts of Bureau, Ogle, Henry and Carroll counties – to earn their tuition by volunteering at local organizations. It was developed over several years as a solution to area issues such as high poverty and low education rates, SVCC Vice President of Advancement Lori Cortez told Shaw Local.

The program launched in 2021 for high school students in Fulton and Prophetstown. Now, in fall 2025, those students have started their freshmen year at SVCC.

“It’s just great to see them in our hallways. It’s like a culmination of all the work we’ve done,” Cortez said.

Of the 18 students, about 14 are majoring in high-demand fields such as education, agriculture, manufacturing, welding or health care, which “are all occupations that we need locally,” Cortez said.

One student, Cortez said, told her they would not have gone to college without the Impact Program. Another said they probably wouldn’t have because they don’t have any parental support.

“To be able to offer that for our students is a really big deal,” Cortez said.

In the program, students must sign up by Sept. 1 of their freshman year of high school to earn 100% of their tuition and fees. If they sign up their sophomore year, they’re eligible for 75% and 50% in their junior year.

To remain in the program, students must complete 25 hours of community service each year of high school and graduate, on time or early, from an in-district high school or home-school program.

Volunteer opportunities at 286 participating organizations are posted on the program’s website. In November, 87 events were posted.

The Impact Program “has been awesome for us,” Rachel Swihart, office manager at Open Door Community Church in Sterling, told Shaw Local.

“Neither our tech team or our kids’ ministry would function as smoothly without the Impact Program students. We have repeat students that have come for weeks at a time, year after year, and they’ll even train new Impact students who come in,” Swihart said.

In the past four years, Swihart said,

they’ve developed relationships with several of the student volunteers and many have gotten involved with the church outside of the Impact Program.

One student started volunteering at the church through the program in 2021. The next year she got baptized and in 2025 she began running its kids’ Christmas program – not for Impact hours, just because she’s part of the church, Swihart said.

Another student started coming to services at the church after volunteering with Impact. For the next service she brought her sister, then her mom and next week they’re bringing their niece for the first time, Swihart said.

“I think the Impact Program has just been amazing for the community, and we love getting to both support it and be benefited by it,” Swihart said.

Cortez said members of the Rotary Club in Walnut told her they’ve raised more than ever at their fundraisers and are gaining membership.

Dixon’s Petunia Festival Board President Rob Bates told Shaw Local the festival’s set up, teardown and information booths are almost entirely done by Impact Program volunteers each year.

“We really lean on and need, particularly young people, to help us out to make it possible. If we had to pay folks to do all the set-up and tear-down work ... we wouldn’t be able to provide as many events and services as part of our festival,” Bates said.

“The festival loves supporting youth programs in the area and being able to kind of participate in the students’ future education,” Bates said.

“It’s really been a fantastic partnership for us,” Bates said, adding that a lot of the Impact students enjoy getting to see the behind the scenes into what goes into the festival.

The Impact Program is entirely funded by donations. In 2025, its raised more than $8 million and fully funded tuition for students in Polo, Milledgeville, Fulton and

Prophetstown.

Each high school in the college’s district has a set goal for the amount of money needed to fund student tuition, calculated using SVCC’s enrollment numbers from the past five years and increasing that by 20% to account for the anticipated uptick in enrollment, Cortez said.

Those who donate can specify which school they’d like their money to go to and donations made by municipalities are automatically allocated toward its public school district, Cortez said.

Fulton and Prophetstown were the first ones to be fully funded after a Fulton woman donated $1 million. In Polo, a group of about 60 people came together to fund its $600,000 goal. Milledgeville also met its goal at $500,000.

The goals for Dixon, Sterling and Rock Falls are the highest, at $2 million each. So far, Dixon has raised $106,000, Sterling is

Alex T. Paschal
Parker Fogel of Dixon High School helps with food prep Wednesday, Nov. 26, while volunteering as part of SVCC’s Impact program. A group of students prepared meals through the Path to the Future program organized through the Regional Office of Education.

DR. DOUGLAS K. NELSON

Born: May 18, 1950

Died: December 31, 2024

Dr. Douglas K. Nelson, DO, age 74, a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and caring physician, died at Ojai Community Hospital in Ojai, California, on December 31, 2024. He died of pancreatic cancer, but had lived courageously through the ups and downs of that disease for 3 years. Doug is survived by his wife of 53 years, Donna (Huizenga). He was surrounded by his family in the last weeks of his life and at his passing.

Doug was born May 18, 1950, in Morrison, Illinois, to loving parents, Howard and Jean Nelson. He graduated from Morrison Community High School in 1968, and attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan, where he was Co-Captain of the football team and graduated with honors in his pre-med studies. He attended Garrett Theological Seminary at Northwestern University in Chicago for one year and then studied for a year at Northern Illinois University. He graduated from Chicago School of Osteopathic Medicine, and then completed a year of internship in Detroit, Michigan, and a two-year residency in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Doug and Donna moved to Ojai in 1982

WILLIAM “BILL” BAKER

Born: March 6, 1951 in Champaign, IL

Died: December 8, 2025 in Albany, IL

William “Bill” M. Baker, 74, of Albany, IL, formerly of Erie, IL, passed away Monday, December 8, 2025 at Friendship Manor Rock Island, IL. Graveside service will be held Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 2:30 PM at the Erie Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1-2 pm at Gibson-Bode Funeral Home Erie, IL. Burial will be at Erie Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Friendship Manor, Rock Island, IL. Bill was born in Champaign, IL, on March 6, 1951 to Dr. John and Caroline (Fenstermaker) Baker. He graduated in 1969 from Erie High School. He married Betty Jo Black in 1994 in Fenton, IL. Bill worked with his father on their

with their two small sons. Doug began his medical career in family practice, worked as an emergency room doctor, and delivered babies. During his 40-year career in Ojai, he founded the Valley Oak Family Practice, which continues today. He spent hours in the emergency room as an attending physician. He was kind, compassionate and smart. He cared for and saved the lives of countless people in Ojai, always with his unmatched commitment to his patients and colleagues. He wanted to be a doctor all his life, and Ojai is the community that became his home.

Doug is also survived by his three sons and their families, Adam (Mia and sons Patrick and Jacob); Matthew (Lindsey and sons Ethan and Isaac); and Luke (Marisol and daughter Avyanna); his brother-in-law, Cecil Stralow; his wife’s brother, Robert Huizenga; his wife’s sister, Ruth Robbins, and husband Robb; and four nieces, four nephews and their spouses and children.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Jean Nelson, and his sister, Dolores Stralow, as well as his wife’s parents, Paul and Verna Huizenga.

Doug enjoyed many things in his lifetime, and he worked very long and hard, but most of all, he loved his wife and three sons. He was always there for them. He was there for their baseball games, school activities and growing up. They were Dodger fans and went to games every year. He supported his sons through their sports, college, careers, marriages and

farm raising pigs. After his father died, Bill drove a truck locally for Foodliner.

In his younger days, Bill was an avid bowler and loved softball and hunting.

He is survived by his sister, Lora (Dr. Tom) Brozovich, Rock Island, IL; nephew, Dr. John (Samantha) Brozovich, Aledo, IL; niece, Amy (Ben) Kratz, Papillion, NE; great nieces and nephews, Isabelle and Sophia Brozovich and Easton, Carter and Briella Kratz. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and brother Jeff Baker.

The family would like to thank Bill’s special friends, Brian Holcomb and Charlie Brown for their unwavering assistance, as well as the nurses and staff at Friendship Manor for their wonderful care.

Share a memory or condolence at www. gibsonbodefh.com

raising families. Each son called him “the best dad ever.” The family’s love and traditions continued with the arrival of each of his five grandchildren.

Doug and Donna went on their first date to the homecoming dance in their freshman year of high school. They supported and loved each other through high school, college, medical school and family and work life for 60 years.

Doug loved the outdoors. He grew up working and playing at his grandpa Roy’s farm where he gathered an impressive collection of arrowheads. He also worked in his dad’s electrical business. When he met and dated Donna, he worked on her parents’ farm and did whatever chores were needed: baling hay, feeding animals or shingling a new roof. Adam, Matt, and Luke spent many vacations growing up and playing on that farm in Northwestern Illinois. They remember waiting until dark to set off fireworks with their dad on the back 40.

Doug discovered wilderness and backpacking and canoeing while camping in the Boundary Waters of Minnesota with his high school church group. Eventually, he and Donna bravely guided groups of kids on two-week trips, which included visits to the Root Beer Lady on Knife Lake. They returned to the Gunflint Trail with their boys for many vacations of fishing, canoeing, watching wildlife and viewing the Northern Lights. Although they no longer backpacked, they still enjoyed rustic resorts and Minnesota pie.

Doug was a generous person with his family

ROGER “DODGE” L. WILLIAMS, SR.

Born: August 20, 1949 in Loudon, TN

Died: December 10, 2025 in Peoria, IL

Roger “Dodge” L. Williams, Sr., age 76, of Prophetstown, died Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.

and extended family. He and Donna planned travels for them and shared adventures, delicious food and activities in beautiful locations. They were privileged to travel to Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand because of their friendship with David Walker from Sydney. They often took family along and made many memories, including dinner under the Harbor Bridge at Ripples, snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, exploring New Zealand and so much more.

To our dear friends, hospital and work family and patients, we extend heartfelt gratitude. You were an integral part of his life, and we honor his memory together. He was a better person because of you. Thank you for your prayers, cards and kind words during his illness.

A private memorial and gathering for the family was held June 26, 2025 in Grand Haven, Michigan. Please consider a donation to the Ojai Valley Community Hospital Foundation, 1301 Maricopa Highway, Suite A, Ojai, CA 93023.

Our hearts ache and we wanted more time, but we are thankful for the love and joy we shared. As Doug said during his final days, “It was a great life.” We will remember his voice, his laugh, his friendship, and his hugs. Doug leaves us full of memories, lessons, and a deep love that will strengthen us as we go on from here.

Sharon Sue Braun, 81, of Prophetstown, formerly of Fulton, passed on December 10, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, Fulton, Illinois. Additional information: www.bosmarenkes.com.

DONALD LEE DYKEMA

Donald Lee Dykema, 92, of Morrison, IL, passed on Sunday, December 7, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, Morrison, IL. Additional information: www.bosmarenkes.com.

Roger was born August 20, 1949 in Loudon, TN, the son of Bob and Nova Schultz. He graduated from Prophetstown High School in 1967 and later married Becky Mannon on July 31, 1971 in Prophetstown. She preceded him in death on January 22, 2013. Roger owned and operated Dodge’s Meat Market in Prophetstown for many years and retired from 3M where he worked as a chemical engineer for 20 years. He enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s sporting and school events, as well as working on

and restoring old cars.

He is survived by his two daughters, Tiffni Williams of Chicago and Kili (Mike) Bielema of Dunlap; one son, Roger Williams, Jr. (Mandy Combs) of Prophetstown; one brother, Ronnie Williams of Morrison; three grandchildren, Brady Bielema, Adison Bielema, and Beclyn Bielema; one nephew, Curt (Lori) Williams of Morrison; and one niece, Abby Bush of Morrison.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Becky Williams; mother, L. Nova Schultz; step-father, Bob Schultz; in laws, Paul and Rena Mannon; and his sister-in-law, Sue Williams.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2025 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM at the McDonald Funeral Home, 46 Grove Street, Prophetstown. A graveside service will take place on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Lyndon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to Illinois Cancer Care.

Online condolences may be sent to www. mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com.

SHARON BRAUN

Riverdale High School announces Illinois State Scholars

Here are the Class of 2026 state scholars from Riverdale High School. Back row, from left: Braden Janiki, Mason Smyser, Micah Reece, Nolan Peirce, Finley Brock, and Katherine Cox. Middle row, from left: Ambrose Pennock, Carrie Pridemore, Axel Pennock, Braeden Bode, Claire Beeler, and Dean Wainwright. Front row, from left: Caitlin Mumma, Caroline Kreiter, Aubrey McGinty, Amanda Shadrick, and Kamryn Kruger.

Erie library hosts community Christmas party Dec. 18

The Erie Public Library invites residents to a community Christmas party from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18.

Children can meet Santa, visit Santa’s Bookshop, decorate cookies and make glowing snowmen. Adults can visit the open (Wassail) bar.

Morrison’s Odell Public Library hosts storytime, Lego Club

The Odell Public Library in Morrison will be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the day after Christmas (Dec. 26). The library will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 27.

The library also will be closed on New Year’s Day. It will be open from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2.

Odell Public Library is located at 307 S. Madison St. in Morrison.

Storytime: This is a 30-minute drop-in program every Thursday evening designed for families with preschool through early elementary-aged children (or anyone who still loves a good

read-aloud). Families will enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, and a craft each week. Pajamas always are welcome. The theme for Dec. 18 is Christmas cheer.

Lego Club meets on the first Saturday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to noon. It is for builders of all ages and abilities. The library provides a variety of bricks including Lego, Duplo, and MegaBlok. Patron creations are displayed in the library until the next meeting.

Book & Bake Sale proceeds: The Odell Public Library Friends extend a heartfelt thank you to all those who participated in this year’s Book & Bake Sale either by donating materials, baking treats or shopping. The Friends raised $3,224 during the sale and an additional $610 in the weeks after the event.

The Friends will be ordering two 6-foot outdoor benches for patrons to enjoy. Outdoor seating has been a wish-list item for the library and will serve as a reading or resting place for the community. Look for the benches to be installed along the entryway in the spring.

– Shaw Local News Network

Photo Provided By Riverdale High School

How to treat yourself to a cleaner cookie

BEYOND TRIM

I love cookies. Who doesn’t? But just because I love them, it doesn’t mean that I eat a lot of them.

Cookies are that perfect combination of sugar, fat and salt that exemplifies addictive foods and I find that the more I eat, the more I want to eat.

Still, I treat myself to cookies occasionally, especially at this time of the year. My favorite is homemade iced sugar cookies made with butter because if I am going to eat a cookie, I want something baked from scratch.

The mass-produced, packaged cookies on the grocery store shelf come with ingredients you would never use in your home such as preservatives, fillers, artificial colors, etc.

For example, here is the list of ingredients in a very famous chocolate chip cookie: Unbleached Enriched Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate (vitamin B1), Riboflavin (vitamin B2), Folic Acid), Semisweet Chocolate Chips (Sugar, Chocolate, Cocoa Butter, Dextrose, Milk, Soy Lecithin), Sugar, Canola Oil, Palm Oil, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Leavening (Baking Soda, Ammonium Phosphate), Salt, Artificial Flavor, Caramel Color, Natural Flavor. You would never use palm

OBITUARIES

RICHARD A. BUIKEMA

Richard A. Buikema, 91, of Eldridge, IA, formerly of Fulton, IL, passed on Sunday, December 14, 2025.

Arrangements entrusted to Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, Fulton, IL. Additional information: www.bosmarenkes.com.

LARRY T. FREDERICK

Larry T. Frederick, 84, of Prophetstown, IL, passed on Monday, December 8, 2025.

Arrangements entrusted to Bosma-Gibson Funeral Home , Prophetstown. Additional information: www.bosmagibson.com.

kernel oil, high fructose corn syrup, or artificial colors and flavors in cookies you bake at home. Consuming these ingredients is proved to have health consequences, and we should steer clear of them.

When I crave a cookie, but I don’t want to blow my diet, I like to use recipes such as this one. It’s just two ingredients, not counting the salt, and the recipe makes only six cookies. Almond flour is calorie dense, but it provides protein, healthy fat and fiber. Since it’s the only flour used, it also makes these cookies gluten free for those who avoid it.

Almond Cookies (gluten free)

• 1 cup almond flour – fine grade

• ¼ cup real maple syrup

• Dash of salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a baking sheet by covering it with parchment paper. Spray the parchment paper with cooking spray. Add all ingredients to a mixing bowl and stir to combine. Scoop rounded portions of dough onto the cookie sheet using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon. Spray fingertips with cooking spray and pat the dough into discs. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden. Cool for 30 minutes. Makes six cookies; 143 calorie per cookie.

Enjoy!

• Sherry DeWalt is the healthy lifestyles coordinator for the CGH Health Foundation in Sterling.

TED ALLEN JONSSON

Ted Allen Jonsson, 57, of Daytona Beach, FL, formerly of Fulton, IL, passed on Saturday , December 6, 2025 .

Arrangements entrusted to Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, Fulton, IL. Additional information: www.bosmarenkes.com.

EVELYN KAY PESSMAN

Evelyn Kay Pessman, 83, of Fulton, IL, passed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Now Available

To request your FREE copy, simply call us at (815) 632-2566 or email your requests and address to: knull@saukvalley.com

Make

2026

the

Year You Go Solar: Key Incentives to Know

SPONSORED BY

Now is a great time to explore making the switch to solar. Stateline Solar customers own their systems and receive applicable incentives, helping improve their return on investment.

Net Metering and Smart Solar Billing

Net metering measures the power delivered to your home and power received by the utility from your solar array. At the end of the month, excess kWh credits are used to lower your power bill. Your solar array can assist your power bill costs not just when it’s sunny, but all month long.

ComEd Distributed Generation Rebate

ComEd offers a Distributed Generation (DG)

and are a defining reason why solar continues to grow across the state.

USDA REAP Grant for Small Businesses and Farms

Rural small businesses and farms may qualify for the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), covering up to 50% of project costs when funding is available. Grant applications are temporarily on hold, but loan applications continue.

Accelerated Depreciation for Solar Systems

Commercial solar equipment qualifies as 5-year property under IRS rules. Through the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), businesses can depreciate systems quickly, lowering taxable income. Combined with other incentives, accelerated depreciation can significantly boost ROI.

Is Solar Right for You?

ROGER WILLIAMS, SR

Roger Williams, Sr, 76, of Prophetstown, passed on December 10, 2025 at Richard C. Owens Hospice, in Peoria.

Arrangements entrusted to McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory in Prophetstown

ROGER WILLIAMS, SR

Arrangements entrusted to Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, Fulton, IL. Additional information: www.bosmarenkes.com.

Roger Williams, Sr, 76, of Prophetstown, passed on December 10, 2025 at Richard C. Owens Hospice, in Peoria.

Arrangements entrusted to McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory in Prophetstown

Rebate to offset the cost of installing a qualified renewable energy system. Residential and small commercial projects can receive $300 per kW of solar installed. Adding a battery increases the rebate to $300 per kWh. Applicants must be on hourly pricing to qualify.

Illinois Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)

SRECs help Illinois meet renewable energy goals and can cover 40–50% of a system’s cost, depending on size, market rates, and program category. SRECs are paid out over a set term

Every property is unique, and incentives vary. Speak with a qualified tax professional when making a decision. Stateline Solar is here to help you understand your options and design a system that makes sense for you.

To learn more, contact the solar professionals at Stateline Solar!

Stateline Solar

310 W. Main St. Lena, IL 61048

Ph: (815) 580-3011 statelinesolar.net

1985: Mrs. Drury elected president of Illinois Beef Council

60 years

Dec. 15, 1965

Long-range plans for permanent flood protection for the Fulton area are moving ahead on a satisfactory basis, according to a report given at a meeting of the special Flood Control committee set up by the City Council several months ago. U.S. Engineers already have started work on the feasibility study authorized by Congress and financed by an appropriation of $40,000 approved at the last session.

Half a dozen boys have been apprehended by Chief of Police Vernon Krahn and Officer Dale Hall and have admitted they destroyed outside Christmas decorations at homes on 14th and 15th avenues. In all cases, the boys were reprimanded and their parents made complete restitution for the damage.

50 years

Dec. 17, 1975

A check for $166,000 from the federal government was paid out on secondary sewage treatment bills during a special meeting of the City Council. The money will pay 90% of the bills due on the plant. An additional 5% is expected from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Much of the River Bend School Board meeting was spent discussing the recent appointment of Supt. C. R. Leininger as

• IMPACT PROGRAM

Continued from page 3

assistant Illinois Superintendent of Education and his request that he be released from his Fulton contract as of Jan. 1. The board agreed to release him on the condition, which Mr. Leininger had included in his request, that he serve the board as a consultant until the end of the school year. The board appointed Assistant Superintendent Lyle Henderson as acting superintendent until a replacement is employed.

40 years

Dec. 18, 1985

Mrs. Louise Drury of rural Fulton was elected president of the Illinois Beef Council Auxiliary during the group’s annual convention in Peoria. This is the first time a Whiteside County woman has held this statewide position. She is the wife of grain and cow-calf farmer Burton Drury of Garden Plain Township and is well-known in the area for her part in organizing the county’s Red Meat Connection several years ago.

In an executive session after the regular meeting, the River Bend Board of Education voted to employ Dr. J.S. Brancato as chief negotiator with teachers of the district in developing a collective bargaining agreement. The board also heard a report from Superintendent Storm indicating that the district may trim utility bills as much as $20,000

at $96,000 and Rock Falls at $95,000. In the past two weeks, Cortez and another Impact Program representative visited all three city council meetings to give an update on their specific students’ progress.

Next is Bureau Valley, Amboy, Oregon and Newman at $600,000 each. Oregon made the most progress, raising $25,000; a close second is Bureau Valley at $22,000, then Amboy at $1,300 and Newman at $0. Ashton Franklin Center has raised $112,500 of its needed $500,000 and Morrison raised $300,000 of $400,000. Ohio

during the school year.

30 years

Dec. 13, 1995

Two youths who attend River Bend schools will not be in classes for the remainder of the year after the school board expelled them. The action was taken because one of the students had a BB gun when he attended a basketball game at Unity High School. One of the students attends Albany Grade School and the other is a freshman at Fulton High School. Both students reside in Albany.

Brian Faulkner, a Fulton High School senior, was named the school’s honoree in The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program. The award is presented for outstanding, self-initiated community service. Fulton High School student David Criss is the SAR Award recipient and Fulton High School student Laura Temple is the DAR Award recipient.

20 years

Dec. 14, 2005

In a photo, Thelma Wierenga prepares to cut the ribbon that turned over the Heritage Canyon to the city of Fulton. The Wierengas gave the complex to the city as a gift to ensure its continuance. The city graciously accepted the

still needs its full goal of $250,000 along with Faith Christian, which needs $100,000.

The program is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it funds the remaining amount of tuition not covered by other scholarship or financial aid if a student receives those. Either way, all Impact students will graduate from SVCC with-

gift and now is operating the canyon in much the same way that the Wierengas envisioned it to be as a free tourist attraction for all to enjoy.

Congratulations to Matt Paul, Billy Damhoff, Jaci Ottens, Katherine Ottens, James Keiller, Jennifer Smith and Matt Appuhn, who have been chosen as Illinois State Scholars based on their ACT scores and class ranks at Fulton High School.

10 years

Dec. 16, 2015

Mercy Medical Center nurse Deb Bielema of Fulton was awarded the quarterly DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The award, sponsored by HyVee Floral, is presented in collaboration with The American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) and is part of the DAISY Foundation’s program to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day.

For a 10th consecutive year, NelsonCorp Wealth Management collected canned goods and nonperishable food items at its office in Clinton. NelsonCorp would like to thank its many clients and friends for being so generous this holiday season. Food Pantry volunteers Betty Wiebenga and Bob Feldt accepted donations and a check from NelsonCorp team member Brad Fritz.

out student loans.

As of Nov. 25, the 1,887 registered students have completed a total of 98,269 volunteer hours at 288 participating local organizations since the program started, according to the Impact Program’s community dashboard.

For information, visit the Impact Program’s website.

Ogle County sheriff hopes for conversations with governor

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle, along with other sheriffs in the state, released a statement Thursday, Dec. 4, expressing desire to work with Gov. JB Pritzker and the state legislature on revising the criminal justice reform SAFE-T Act that took effect in September 2023.

The statement was made in response to Pritzker saying the state government is “open to listening to what changes might need to be made” after a woman was set on fire Nov. 17 in Chicago. A Chicago man who has more than 70 prior arrests, including eight felony convictions, has been accused in the case.

The SAFE-T Act’s history

The SAFE-T Act eliminated cash bail. Judges still can order someone to be detained as they await trial, but the new system is instead based on an offender’s level of risk of reoffending or fleeing prosecution. The SAFE-T Act also reformed police training, certification and use-of-force standards, expanded detainee rights and gave the attorney general’s office authority to investigate alleged civil rights violations by law enforcement. It also required body cameras at all police departments by 2025.

VanVickle was president of the Illinois Sheriff’s Association when the SAFE-T Act was written and passed. His desire is to see judicial discretion restored, accountability strengthened, and ensuring that victims’ rights remain at the forefront in a potential revision, the statement said. He hopes the governor and legislators will engage directly with frontline law enforcement as they evaluate next steps.

“I welcome an honest, expert-led conversation about what is – and is not –working for public safety in Illinois,” VanVickle wrote. “Law enforcement across the state has raised consistent concerns about provisions that restrict our ability to detain violent and repeat offenders. We all want fairness in the justice system, but fairness cannot come at the expense of victims or our communities. When individuals accused of the most serious crimes are released after a single hearing, victims lose confidence and families feel less safe. That must change.”

The main change VanVickle would like to see in a revision to the SAFE-T

be addressed through more staffing.”

Ogle County’s jail was constructed in recent years and opened in early 2021, and was designed to be operated pre-SAFE-T Act. Now-nonexistent bail money was planned for the county’s debt service.

“The jail is now essentially funded 100% by taxpayers,” VanVickle said. “The vast majority of our taxpayers don’t go to jail, but they have to fund the facility. It has not been that way in the past. Previously fines, fees and bond money contributed to that. Now it’s all on the backs of the taxpayers. It was previously never that way. That wasn’t our plan when we built the jail.”

The Ogle County sheriff believes bond has a place in the criminal justice reform structure, namely as a way to ensure that people attend court appearances. He said that process has become “more cumbersome” since the SAFE-T Act.

Act is judges having more control over the detention or release of defendants. The Ogle County sheriff said the legislation has yielded different results in each of Illinois’ 102 counties.

Some counties have seen jail populations cut in half, while others have seen them rise significantly, VanVickle said. That is due to counties’ operations differing and lawyers interpreting the law differently in each county, he said. After the SAFE-T Act, defendants are being released almost immediately, or serving longer than they would have before 2023, he said.

“We’ve seen people that get arrested on a no bond failure to appear warrant on Thursday now sit in jail potentially until Monday,” VanVickle said. “Whereas pre-SAFE-T Act, they would have been out the next morning. Those are issues we see when they take away that judicial oversight. For me, that’s the biggest issue at hand, not allowing the judges to make those decisions.”

VanVickle cited the case of a woman who was arrested, transported to the Ogle County Jail for a detainable offense and kept in jail due to being “an issue with society” and was in a “true mental health situation.” She remained in jail for almost five months with no avenue, such as bond, to be released to seek care, he said.

The sheriff also cited cases of failure to appear arrest warrants issued if someone doesn’t show up to multiple

court dates. A policy has been instituted by the sheriff’s office to only service those warrants north of Interstate 80 due to the likely quick release of those arrestees, he said.

“Because we know they’re going to get out of jail, so it makes no sense to go all the way across the state to pick up somebody to just be released immediately,” VanVickle said. “Those are the unintended consequences of taking judicial discretion away.”

VanVickle: Act has had negative effects on safety, taxpayers

Daily population numbers in the Ogle County Jail taken at the end of the day are typically low-to-mid 40s since the SAFE-T Act took effect. Prior to 2023, numbers were typically in the upper 60s. VanVickle said overall numbers of inmates processed into jail since 2023 are actually slightly higher, due to multiple arrests and quick releases under the new system.

The abolition of cash bail has created more processing and release work for Ogle County Jail personnel.

“Our corrections staff is three deputies on the day shift,” VanVickle said. “They still have to do rounds and take care of the jail population and get them to court, all while doing the processing for new inmates that are all basically in and then right back out. It has definitely created a strain on staff that really is a concern and, at some point, will need to

Ogle County Sheriff’s Office deputies are paid for their time in court on cases, and VanVickle said defendants not appearing in court due to less consequences is causing additional cost.

“It’s an unfunded mandate, spending more overtime dollars to have people in court and defendants don’t show up,” VanVickle said. “I remember one day being at the courthouse and over 30 different defendants didn’t show up for one court call. It definitely is an issue.”

VanVickle still is involved with the ISA’s executive board as its treasurer and as a past president. He will be part of an ISA legislative call in coming weeks on the topic of the SAFE-T Act. It is the Ogle County sheriff’s hope that discussions on criminal justice legislation are had by the legislature in coming months.

VanVickle estimates that “probably 90 percent” of sheriffs in the state would support a revision to the SAFE-T Act. As ISA president at the time of the legislation, he was the lone sheriff to testify in front of the legislature.

“I was asked one question: ‘Will you stop referring to offenders as criminals?’ That’s pretty much how the supermajority of the state legislature has worked with law enforcement since I’ve been in law enforcement,” VanVickle said. “That’s the frustrating part, the safety of our communities. While they came up with a catchy little title for the act, it hasn’t made our communities safer. It’s made it safer for the criminals.”

Alex T. Paschal
Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle, along with other sheriffs, released a statement Dec. 4 expressing the desire to work with Gov. JB Pritzker.

Fulton High School junior B.L.I.N.D. leader: Kayleen Mendoza

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK

My name is Kayleen Mendoza, and I’m a 17-year-old junior at Fulton High School.

I am the daughter of Aaron and Mindy Mendoza, and as the oldest of two siblings, I have taken on the natural role of guiding and helping others.

That is one of the big reasons that I joined B.L.I.N.D. I truly enjoy supporting freshmen and helping them start their high school journey in a positive way.

I believe that my traits of being reliable, caring, independent, and a strong leader allow me to build real, meaningful relationships with the freshman students that I work with.

These qualities help me connect with them, help them feel welcome, and remind them that they are not alone as they adjust to a new environment during the transition from middle

school to high school.

One of my favorite parts of being in B.L.I.N.D. is getting to know the freshman on a personal level.

Learning about their interests, goals, and their personalities is something I genuinely enjoy. It helps me understand how to relate to them better, and creates a bond that can hopefully lead to valuable friendships.

Outside of B.L.I.N.D., I’m involved in many other extracurricular activities, including band, choir, jazz band, Show Choir, Thespians, Scholastic Bowl, and cheerleading.

Being a part of these groups allows me to explore my interests, manage my time, develop new skills and connect with others from all grade levels.

Fulton High School junior B.L.I.N.D. leader: Natalie Anton

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Hi! My name is Natalie Anton. I’m 17 years old and a junior at Fulton High School.

I live with my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Anton, who you may know as the school district’s music teachers!

I also have one younger brother, Noah, who is a sophomore, and a puppy named Clara.

The activities I’m involved in are

B.L.I.N.D., Thespians, Scholastic Bowl, football cheerleading, band (I play the flute), choir, and Show Choir.

I became a B.L.I.N.D. leader because I look up to and rely on many older students, and I want to be that person for others!

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

CrossView Church menus

A free community meal is served on Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. at CrossView Church, 703 14th Ave. in Fulton.

Menus

Dec. 17: Chicken and noodles, rolls, green beans, peaches, Scotcheroos

Dec. 24 and 31: No Table: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Jan. 7: Soup and sandwiches, Jell-O, Pastor Scott’s birthday cake – Shaw Local News Network

Natalie Anton
Kayleen Mendoza

2025 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

2025 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Unique places for holiday shopping

Although the holiday season is a relatively brief period, it still can consume months of time in regard to preparation, shopping and hosting. According to a SWNS Digital survey of 2,000 adults in the United States, the average American spends six weeks preparing for the holiday season. Five weeks are devoted to planning presents, meals and other essentials, while an entire week is just for decorating.

Shopping for presents can consume a lot of time, especially for those who aren't quite sure what to get. Thinking outside of the typical retail box may help with inspiration, and shoppers may encounter smaller crowds and find better deals. Here are some unique places to shop to grab great holiday gifts.

• Pharmacies: While you're picking up your prescription or medicine cabinet essentials, take a spin around the store to see what else might be available. Typically, pharmacies have entire aisles dedicated to seasonal merchandise, so you might be able to find holiday decorations, gift wrap, candles, pampering items, and even food-related items and gift baskets.

• Farmer's market: Farmer's markets pop up in towns on set days of the week. Although plenty of farm-related produce and plants are available, these markets also attract many other small businesses. You can find craftsmen, jewelry makers, niche food sellers, and so much more.

• School (or church) bazaar: In an effort to raise funds for the PTA or other organizations, schools and churches often host holiday fairs and bazaars right before the holidays. Area businesses rent table space and set up booths with an array of different products for sale. This is a great spot to grab interesting finds all under one roof. Plus, you're supporting the local community in the process.

• Home improvement retailer: Plenty of people will appreciate practical gifts that they can use in and around the home. A visit to a hardware store or home improvement retailer offers up aisles of essentials for the do-it-yourselfer. While new shelving for the garage or a set of flashlights may not be the most glamorous gifts, these items can come in handy.

• Craft store: Cater to recipients' favorite hobbies by ensuring they'll be flush with plenty of supplies. Craft stores have a bevy of items for every interest imaginable. They're also surprisingly good places to grab deals on picture frames, housewares, food-making supplies, and decorative items.

• Specialty food store: Head to small specialty food stores to load up on unique items larger supermarkets might not carry. Ethnic markets may have flavorful and interesting ingredients to group together in a food basket that makes an ideal gift for transplants missing the flavors of home.

Before a person logs on to the internet for online shopping or heads to the nearest strip mall, he or she can explore various unique places to shop for holiday gifts.

2289160 consultation. Want to learn more?

Give the gift of peace of mind to yourself and your loved ones this holiday season. A personalized estate plan can ensure that the legacy you leave behind is received by the people you chose.

Call today to schedule a consultation. Give the gift of peace of mind to yourself and your loved ones this holiday season.

Visit our website at www.bit.ly/NBFandB

Want to learn more?

Visit our website at www.bit.ly/NBFandB

445 US Hwy 6 East, Geneseo, IL 5030 38th Ave. Suite 2, Moline, IL 309-944-2188 * 800-644-5345 www.nashbeanford.com

A personalized estate plan can ensure that the legacy you leave behind is received by the people you chose. Call today to schedule a consultation. Want to learn more?

445 US Hwy 6 East, Geneseo, IL 5030 38th Ave. Suite 2, Moline, IL Nash Bean Ford & Brown, llp

CHURCH LISTINGS

ALBANY

Albany United Methodist Church

502 N. First Ave., 309-887-4781

Pastor Toni Lucas

St. Patrick Catholic Church 1201 N. Bluff St., Albany

Father Timothy Barr, Pastor CORDOVA

Cordova Baptist 602 Third Ave. South, Cordova

Pastor Carmen Jordan 309-654-2501 - www.cordovafbc.com

EAST MOLINE

Sycamore Baptist Church 5323 180th Street North, East Moline 309-200-2505 www.sycamorebaptistchurch.com

Wildwood Baptist Church 18717 Hubbard Road, East Moline 309-496-9397 office@ wildwoodchurch.com

Pastors Brian Smith, Andrew Robinson, Andy Thomaston and Matt Winquist

Zion Lutheran Church 17628 Hubbard Road, East Moline

Rev. Gary A. Wright - 309-496-3592

ERIE

Erie Baptist Church 8th Ave. and 11th Street, Erie

Call Ron Kimball for info: 309-230-3584

Erie Christian Church 715 6th Ave., Erie, 309-659-2561

Minister: Nathan Bright Youth Minister: Aaron Sweeney www.eriechristianchurch.com

Erie Evangelical Free Church 1409 16th Ave., Erie, 309-659-7125 Website: erieefree.org

Pastor Ron Eckberg

Pastor Jonathan Eckberg

Erie United Methodist Church 811 8th Street, Erie

Pastor Tiffany Garcea - 309-659-2541 www.erieumc.org

Farmers Elevator

815-772-4029 - Morrison, IL

Rock River Lumber & Grain

815-537-5131 - Prophetstown

Frary’s Lumber & Supply 815-537-5151 - Prophetstown

Newton Zion Reformed Church 10465 Frog Pond Road, Erie

Pastor Shannon Parrish - 309-659-2464 newtonzion@frontier.com

St. Ambrose Catholic Church Corner of 5th and Main

Father David Reese Rectory Phone: 815-537-2077

Church Phone: 309-659-2781

FENTON

New Life Church of Fenton 10019 Main St., Fenton, 815-858-6180 fentonumc19@gmail.com

FULTON

Bethel Christian Reformed Church 1208 3rd Avenue, Fulton, 815-589-2501 www.bethelfulton.com bethelcrchurch@gmail.com Sunday service is 10 a.m.

First Reformed Church

510 15th Avenue, Fulton, 815-589-2203

Pastor Charles Huckaby

Fulton Presbyterian Church 311 N. 9th St., Fulton, 815-589-3580 www.fultonpreschurch.org email: presbyterianchurchfulton@gmail.com.

Garden Plain Presbyterian Church 14915 Sands Road, Fulton

Gateway Faith Fellowship Church 701 11th Avenue, Fulton, 815-589-4283

Pastor Wayne Wiersema

Immaculate Conception Church 703 12th Avenue, Fulton, 815-589-3542

Father Timothy Barr, Pastor secretaryfulton@gmail.com

Newton Zion Reformed Church 10645 Frog Pond Road, Erie, 309-659-2464 newtonzion@frontier.com

Pastor Shannon Parrish

CrossView Church 703 14th Ave., Fulton, 815-589-3425 www.wearecrossview.com secretary@wearecrossview.com

RUTLEDGE ELECTRIC

822 Main, Erie Serving the Area Since 1980 Farm

Spring Valley Reformed Church

10960 Spring Valley Road, Fulton

Pastor Paul Wissink 815-772-3554

First Christian Reformed Church 801 15th Avenue, Fulton, 815-589-3790 www.fultonfirstcrc.com firstcrcfulton@live.com

Pastor Michael Hooker

HILLSDALE

Hillsdale United Methodist Church 124 Butzer St., Hillsdale Church 309-658-2340

Pastor Melva England

HOOPPOLE

Calvary Evangelical Congregational Church Rev. Zachary Van Dyke, Pastor 563-370-8779

Hooppole Zion Methodist Church

Pastor Rolando Renteria 311 Main St, Hooppole, 815-948-7591 Parsonage 309-658-2145

LYNDON

Dominion Christian Fellowship Center 104 4th St. W., Lyndon 815-590-6971

Rev. Barbi E. Momolu Sr.

Trinity Baptist Church

403 6th Ave North, Lyndon Pastor Alan Jahn - 563-242-0307 www.trinitybaptistchapel.com

MORRISON

Bethesda Evangelical Lutheran Church 301 W. South St., Morrison Pastor Tammy Anderson 815-414-1758 - Office: 772-4896

Brethren In Christ Church 207 E. Knox Street, Morrison Sunday Worship at 10:30 a.m. 815-772-4871

Erie, Illinois

Morrison Veterinary Clinic

Jentry Fane, DVM, DVM, R.R. Zinkem, DVM, S.E. Blair, DVM, SJ. Lawfer, DVM

Phone 815-772-4047

14993 Lyndon Rd., Morrison

Church Of St. Anne Episcopal

401 N Cherry St., Morrison, 815-772-2818 stannemorrison@frontiernet.net www.churchofstannemorrison.org

Crossroads Community Church

201 W. Market, Morrison Pastor Jon Eastlick - 815-956-0090 morrison@crossroadscn.com

Ebenezer Reformed Church

309 E. Park St., Morrison Pastor J. T. Bean 815-772-2472

www.ercmorrison.com

Emmanuel Church

202 E. Morris St., Morrison 815-772-3890

www.ecmorrison.com

Rev. Luke Schouten, Senior Pastor Rich Criss, Ministry Coordinator

First Baptist Church

406 E. Maple Ave. Morrison

Pastor Roy Brown, II Phone 815-772-2696 facebook.com/morrisonfirstbaptist

First Presbyterian Church

Rev. Michael Selburg - 815-772-3510

100 East Lincolnway, Morrison Facebook live services Sundays 10:15 a.m.

YouTube Channel: First Presbyterian Church firstpresmorrison@gmail.com www.firstpresmorrison.org

Kingdom Life Community Church

11429 Ward Road, Morrison 815-772-4098

www.kingdomlife.global

Pastor Stephen Harmon

Morrison Christian Church

201 S. Genesee, Morrison David Manley, Minister, 602-750-6426 d.manley93@yahoo.com

Google YouTube Larry Kidwell for sermons.

Morrison United Methodist Church

200 W. Lincolnway, Morrison Pastor Sun-Ah Kang - 815-772-4030

Warranty Deeds

Warranty Deeds

• Norma L. Porter to Lois E. Mills, 1001 AVENUE D, ROCK FALLS, $170,000

• John R. Stewart Jr. and Sneha Pisa Stewart to Adeline Spangler, 804 LOCUST STREET, STERLING, $149,350

• Angel Gomez and Maria J. Solis to Greg J. Jackson Jr., 807 12TH ST W, STERLING, $136,000

• Jeffery J. Albrecht and Patricia N. Albrecht Estate to Jeffery J. Albrecht, 315 DALE AVE, PROPHETSTOWN , $0.00

• Sterling M. Thornton and Karli Lynn Thornton to Melissa Herrera, 1202 LEFEVRE RD E, STERLING, $125,000

• Joshua C. Majeski, Paige A. Rogers, and Paige A. Majeski Nka to Justin J. Taylor, 5020 KINER RD, PROPHETSTOWN, $205,000

• Pennymac Loan Services Llc to Find A Place Now Llc, 1206 9TH AVE, FULTON, $47,000

• Richard Nolan Jr. to Leonard Anthony Defendis Sr. and Patricia Jeane Defendis, 1210 DOUGLAS DR, STERLING, $129,000

• Sharon E. Hostetler Trust, Sharon E. Hostetler Trustee, and James W. Hostetler Trust to Kenneth Headings and Shelia Headings, 1 Parcel: 23-27-351-001, $0.00

• David D. Brown and Janet R. Brown to Jacob Johnson and Shelley Johnson, 80 SMIT ROAD, PROPHETSTOWN, $335,100

• Carolyn Spencer Trustee and Dorothy Handel Trust to Carolyn Spencer, 507 11TH ST W, ROCK FALLS, $94,000

• Blake D. Gockel to Lester Cornstubble and Terry D. Cornstubble, 807 18TH ST W, STERLING, $145,000

• Raymond J. Hubbs to Hannah M. Galvan, 1013 8TH ST W, STERLING, $125,350

• Mauro Arellano and Carmen Arellano to Sandra Smith and Kylie Witherow, 908 OAK AVENUE, STERLING, $79,900

• Michael R. Vahle and Mary K. Vahle to Joshua J. Baker and Regina A. Sikkema, 808 LOCUST ST, PROPHETSTOWN, $168,500

• Pauletta J. Klimson to John A. Vanbrocklin and Cindy J. Vanbrocklin, 827 14TH AVE, FULTON, $175,000

• Robert V. Vandermyde Estate, Kelly A. Vandermyde, Lain R. Vandermyde, and Kimberly J. Nistler to Andrew Henson and Tracy Henson, 105 PARK STREET E, MORRISON, $55,000

• Robert J. Dornbush to Prestin D. Snyder, 3691 STONE ST, FULTON, $332,000

• Breanna R. Douglas to Kahla D. Davis, 3312 B ST, ROCK FALLS, $164,900

• Gnb Llc to State Of Illinois Dot, 1701 4TH ST E, STERLING, $505

• Logan James Robert Rathburn to Jaden Rathburn, 19080 17TH ST, FULTON, $55,000

• Greater Sterling Development Corp to State Of Illinois Dot, 1 Parcel: 11-22-331014, $300

• Evan M. Sipes and Kayla R. Sipes to Thomas Tyrakowski, 203 NORTH STREET W, MORRISON, $156,000

• Abraham Zaragoza and Anita Zaragoza to Jaime Ruiz, 1602 GRISWOLD AVE, STERLING, $86,000

• Russell L. Hoogheem Estate to Lyle Patrick Connor and Marie Bray, 1119 3RD AVENUE, FULTON, $190,000

• Catherine E. Willis to Clinton Shuler and Katlin Shuler, 904 8TH AVE, STERLING, $178,000

• Korin L. Davis and Blake E. Davis to Drew Franklin Williams, 622 WOODLAWN DRIVE, PROPHETSTOWN, $162,000

• Teresa Ortiz and Carlos Ortiz Estate to Erin Schmidt, 1610 9TH ST W, STERLING, $103,500

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

• Alan T. Vervynck to Katie M. Frautschy, 1106 5TH AVENUE, STERLING, $120,000

• Terry L. Boseneiler and Penny J. Boseneiler to Pete Sanchez and Jackie Sanchez, 507 EMERY STREET, PROPHETSTOWN, $4,000

Comedian will perform at Clinton’s Wild Rose Hotel Feb. 28

Sarah Colonna will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, in the Oakwood Ballroom at the Wild Rose Casino & Hotel in Clinton, Iowa.

• Robert G. Wagenecht, Bill Wagenecht, Michael William Wagenecht Aka, and Allen Wagenecht to Christopher Sommers and Kelly Sommers, 303 GRAPE ST S, MORRISON, $106,600

• Sahne R. Beswick to Daniel S. Hoffman and Beth L. Hoffman, 26930 MADLYN DR, ROCK FALLS, $125,000

• Tanya B. Stoeckel and Tanya B. Hay Fka to Victoria Welch, 1410 3RD AVENUE, STERLING, $105,000

ninger, 1005 OAK AVE, STERLING, $77,000

• Harkness Properties Llc to Bollman Properties Llc, 305 ROUTE 30 W, ROCK FALLS, $275,000

• Patch Properties Llc to Duran Homes Llc, 408 4TH STREET E, STERLING, $71,000

• Properties 815 Llc to Mariana Cano and Jose Urvina, 908 1ST AVE, STERLING, $154,500

• Kristin L. Trotter and Matthew W. Trotter to Steven L. Mcluckie and Sally L. Mcluckie, 1625 MILNES DRIVE, FULTON, $215,000

• Oak Street Properties Llc to Properties 815 Llc, 505 DIXON AVE, ROCK FALLS, $30,000

• Cory Kramer and Amanda J. Kramer to Eugene Dickinson and Annette Dickinson, 1005 SUNCREST DR, FULTON, $185,000

• Jesus Colon and Ninfa Sosa Meza to Adam D. Haugen, 4404 EMERSON RD, STERLING, $210,000

• Kimberly K. Martin Guardian, Ketnneth R. Mills Estate and Ronald W. Mills to Braeden Phillips, 705 WALL ST W, MORRISON, $32,500

Quit Claims

• Linda J. Dodd to Teri L. Richards and Ricky Richards, 1121 AVENUE A, ROCK FALLS, $151,930

• Carl D. Hull to Corwell Properties Llc, 602-608 19TH STREET E, STERLING, $195,000

• Michael R. Hurd, Jennifer R. Haak, and Audrey A. Hurd Estate to Michael R. Hurd and Jennifer R. Haak, 1210 MINKEL ST, ROCK FALLS, $0.00

• Rhea J. Bunter, Rhea J. Butner Aka, and Nancy A. Seyller to Nancy A. Seyller, 507 ASH AVE, MORRISON, $0.00

• Jamie Snyder, Joseph Wiersema, and Andrew Wiersema to Graeme John Childe Jr. and Cindra kay Childe, 18860 ELSTON RD, FULTON, $123,000

Quit Claims

• Leslie E. Williams to Leslie E. Williams, 1801 AVE E, STERLING, $0.00

• Oris E. Depuy and Dana R. Depuy to Tanya S. Engels Trustee, Oris E. Depuy Trust, and Dana R. Depuy Trust, 6 Parcels: 05-32-200-001, 05-32-200-002, 05-32400-010, 05-32-400-013, 05-33-300004, 15-32-400-011, $0.00

• Tona S. Felder to Victor M. Barrios, 510 8TH ST W, STERLING, $51,200

• Paula Gladfelter to Joshua Majeski and Paige Majeski, 5020 KINER ROAD, PROPHETSTOWN, $0.00

• Lora D. Murphy and Lora D. Gottburgsen Nka to Lora D. Gottbursen and Andrew M. Gottbursen, 1319 4TH AVE, FULTON, $0.00

• Bradley M. Vos, Amy E. Smit, and Brian D. Vos Estate to Bradley M. Vos and Amy E. Smit, 1512 LOCUST ST, STERLING, $0.00

• Donielle Aimee Oliva Oliver Showvay, Donielle A. Showvay, and Donielle A. Schipper Fka to Donielle Aimee Oliva Oliver Showvay and William Douglas Oliva Oliver Showvay, 515 7TH AVENUE, ERIE, $0.00

• Ernestine Daniels to Grady Daniels, 503 12TH AVENUE, STERLING, $0.00

• Cooney Brothers, Harry Cooney, and Thomas Cooney to Thomas E. Cooney, 1 Parcel: 23-28-276-100, $0.00

Trustees Deeds

• Lorie B. Nutt Trustee and Arthur A. Heinze Trust to Brian Bahrs and Sydnie Bahrs, 3803 20TH ST E, STERLING, $310,000

– Shaw Local News Network

• Cynthia L. Dale Trust and William H. T. Lee Trustee to Edwin T. Meiners, 505 7TH ST W, STERLING, $0.00

“Chelsea Lately,” as well as a producer, writer and star of the show’s spin-off scripted series “After Lately.”

• Frank Russell Olsson Trust, Ashley Kristina Olsson Trust, and Frank Olsson Trustee, to William Olsson Trust, 1 Parcel: 15-26-200-024, $0.00

Executors Deeds

CHURCH LISTINGS

CHURCH LISTINGS

St. Mary’s Catholic Church Rev. Slawomir Zimodro 13320 Garden Plain Road, Morrison 815-772-3095

St. Mary’s Catholic Church Rev. Slawomir Zimodro 13320 Garden Plain Road, Morrison 815-772-3095

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church 601 N. Jackson St., Morrison www.stpetersmorrison.com

Interim Pastor Mark Peters Sunday service is at 9:30 a.m. Bible study and Sunday School at 10:45 a.m. Sundays

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church 601 N. Jackson St., Morrison www.stpetersmorrison.com Interim Pastor Mark Peters Sunday service is at 9:30 a.m. Bible study and Sunday School at 10:45 a.m. Sundays

PORT BYRON

PORT BYRON

Bethel Baptist 27308 108th Ave. N., Port Byron Church Phone: 309-523-3352

Bethel Baptist 27308 108th Ave. N., Port Byron Church Phone: 309-523-3352

Church of the Cross United Methodist Church 22621 IL 2 and 92, Port Byron

Church of the Cross United Methodist Church 22621 IL 2 and 92, Port Byron

Pastor Mark Graham Parish Office: 309-523-2201

Pastor Mark Graham Parish Office: 309-523-2201

Countryside Christian Church 3817 230th St. N., Port Byron

Countryside Christian Church 3817 230th St. N., Port Byron

Pastor Steve Allison Church Phone: 309-523-2834

Pastor Steve Allison Church Phone: 309-523-2834

Fairfield United Methodist Church

235th St. at 115th Ave. North, Port Byron

Fairfield United Methodist Church 235th St. at 115th Ave. North, Port Byron

Pastor Larry Misfeldt - 309-523-3767

Pastor Larry Misfeldt - 309-523-3767

Messiah Lutheran Church

Messiah Lutheran Church

302 11th St., Port Byron - 309-523-2421 Pastor Gwen Sefrhans-Murphy

302 11th St., Port Byron - 309-523-2421

Pastor Gwen Sefrhans-Murphy

Peace Lutheran Church ELCA 20828 Friedens Road, Port Byron Interim Pastor: Nancy Jaster www.peacelutheranil.org - 309-523-2295

Peace Lutheran Church ELCA 20828 Friedens Road, Port Byron Interim Pastor: Nancy Jaster www.peacelutheranil.org - 309-523-2295

Port Byron First United Methodist Church 9412 228th St. N., Port Byron, IL Church Office: 309-848-4050 Email: portbyronfirstumc@gmail.com

Roberta Robbins, Lead Pastor Becky Butterfield, Associate Pastor

Port Byron First United Methodist Church 9412 228th St. N., Port Byron, IL Church Office: 309-848-4050 Email: portbyronfirstumc@gmail.com Roberta Robbins, Lead Pastor Becky Butterfield,

PROPHETSTOWN

PROPHETSTOWN

Advent Christian Church

Advent Christian Church

200 Elm St., Prophetstown

200 Elm St., Prophetstown

Pastor Diana Verhulst 815-537-5646 - ptownac.org

Pastor Diana Verhulst 815-537-5646 - ptownac.org

First Lutheran Church

First Lutheran Church

Interim Pastor Susan Davenport Office: 815-537-2758 www.firstlutheran-ptown.org

Interim Pastor Susan Davenport Office: 815-537-2758 www.firstlutheran-ptown.org

Leon United Methodist Church 17173 Lomax Road, Prophetstown Pastor Joey Garcea - cell 815-656-0362 pastorjoeygarcea@gmail.com

Leon United Methodist Church 17173 Lomax Road, Prophetstown Pastor Joey Garcea - cell 815-656-0362 pastorjoeygarcea@gmail.com

Prophetstown

Prophetstown

United Methodist Church 200 W. 2nd St., Prophetstown Pastor Joey Garcea - 815-537-2496

United Methodist Church 200 W. 2nd St., Prophetstown Pastor Joey Garcea - 815-537-2496

River Church

218 E. 3rd St., Prophetstown 815-876-6226 - www.riverchurchag.com

River Church 218 E. 3rd St., Prophetstown 815-876-6226 - www.riverchurchag.com

St. Catherine Catholic Church of Prophetstown 815-537-2077

St. Catherine Catholic Church of Prophetstown 815-537-2077

RAPIDS CITY

RAPIDS CITY

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 1416 Third Ave., Rapids City Fr. Glenn H. Harris Phone 309-496-2414

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 1416 Third Ave., Rapids City Fr. Glenn H. Harris Phone 309-496-2414

TAMPICO

TAMPICO

St. Mary Catholic Church

St. Mary Catholic Church

Reverend Slawomir Zimodro 105 Benton St., Tampico Phone 815-438-5425

Reverend Slawomir Zimodro 105 Benton St., Tampico Phone 815-438-5425

Tampico Baptist Church

Tampico Baptist Church

209 W. 3rd St., Tampico Pastor Ethan Horton

209 W. 3rd Tampico Pastor Ethan Horton

Tampico First United Methodist Church Pastor Leanne Keate - 815-564-2302

United Methodist Church Keate -

Tickets are on sale for this 21 and older event. The doors will open at 7 p.m. Colonna is a standup comedian, actor and New York Times bestselling author. She most recently starred as Angie in Netflix’s hit show “Insatiable,” and recurred as Lori in seasons 9 and 10 of “Shameless.”

• Ann Merritt to Ann M. Merritt Trust, 2504A MEGAN COURT, STERLING, $0.00

• Rock Roots Development Llc to Marlene M. Steinert, Paul E. Steinert, 1506 16TH AVE, ERIE, $360,000

• Stacey Dubree to Carlos Salazar, 910 10TH ST W, STERLING, $130,000

• Vanessa L. Gonzalez to Sallie Kro -

Colonna became well known as the popular roundtable regular on the hit late night talk show “Chelsea Lately.” Colonna also served as a full-time writer on

Colonna was seen in Michael Rosenbaum’s hilarious comedy “Back in the Day,” alongside Rosenbaum, Nick Swardson, Harland Williams, Morena Baccarin and many others. Colonna also appeared in Diablo Cody’s “Paradise,” CBS’ “Battle Creek,” and “Killing Hasselhoff” with Ken Jeong.

• Barry R. Dejamatt Estate to Kraig Grell and Julie Grell, 3105 WOODLAWN RD, STERLING, $134,750

• Judith A. Thome Estate to Jason John Vanlanduit and Renae Elizabeth Vanlanduit, 2327 TAMPICO RD, TAMPICO, $733,180

• Blaine G. Riesselman Estate to Brian Riesselman, 26921 KNIEF RD, ROCK FALLS, $0.00

Advance tickets start at $20 plus tax/ fees, and they are available for purchase at the Iowa Store Box Office or online at wildroseresorts.com. Day-of-show tickets will increase and start at $30 plus tax/ fees. A cash bar will be available.

– Shaw Local News Network

– Shaw Local News Network

& Law

Millcreek Crossing

PUBLIC NOTICE RE : PENNY SLOUGH DRAINAGE AND LEVEE DISTRICT AND SUBDISTRICTS NO 1, 2 AND 3 IN THE COUNTIES OF HEN RY AND WHITESIDE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS

You are hereby notified that the Financial Report of said District covering a period from October 16, 2024 to October 15, 2025, has been filed with the Circuit Court of the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit, Henry County, Illinois. Any owner of land in the district may file an objec tion to the Report with the Clerk of the Court not later than December 31, 2025. If no objections are filed within the time prescribed, the Court may approve the Report without hearing.

Terilyn A. Motley, Circuit Clerk Ames Law Offices Attorneys Orion, Illinois

Dec. 9, 16, 2025

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT ROCK ISL AND COUNTY, ILLINOIS

GREENSTATE CREDIT UNION Plaintiff, -v.-

KAYLA BYERS et al Defendant 2025FC84 NOTICE OF SAL E

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on Jul y 23, 2025, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on January 5, 2026, at the McCarthy, Callas & Feeney, PC, 329 18th Street Suite 100, Rock Island, IL, 61201, sell at publi c inperson sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: LOT NUMBER ELEVEN (11) IN MUNSON'S SECOND ADDITION LOCATED IN A PART OF THE NORTH WEST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTIO N NUMBER TWO (2), IN TOWNSHIP NUMBER SEVENTEEN (17) NORTH, RANGE NUMBER ONE (1) WEST OF THE FOURTH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN,

SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF ROCK ISLAND, IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 3412 2ND ST, EAST MOLINE, IL 61244

Property Index No. 17-02-201-046 The real estate is improved with a residence.

Sale terms: If sold to anyone other than the Pla intiff, 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicia l Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted The balance, in certi fied funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject prope rty is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any r epresentati on as to qua lity or quantity of title and wi thou t recourse to Plaintiff and in ''AS IS'' condition. The sale is further subject to confir mation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be ope n for inspection and plaintiff makes no rep resentation as to the condition of the property. Prospec tive bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information

If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4) If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at th e foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOU RTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT FOR WHITESIDE COUNTY, ILLINOIS - CHANCERY DIVISION CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. PAULA GARCIA; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants 2025 FC 90

Property Address: 2011 Chestnut Ave, St erling, IL 61081 NOTICE BY PUBL ICATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO THE FOLLOWING, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIM ANTS defendants, that this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, asking for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows , to wit: LOT 11 IN DOUGLAS PARK SUBDIVISION, IN THE E AST HALF OF THE NORTHE AST QUARTER OF SECTION 19, TOWNSHIP 21 NORTH, RANGE 7 EAST OF THE 4TH P.M., ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MAY 20, 1953 IN WHITESIDE COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as: 2011 Chestnut Ave, Sterling, IL 61081

Names of the title holders of record: PAULA GARCIA.

Date of the Mortgage: April 16, 2004. Name or names of the mortgagors: PAULA GARCIA and FRANCISCO B. GARCIA, JR., now deceas ed.

Name of the mortgagee: Amcore Bank, N.A..

Date and place of recording: April 16, 2004;

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where Th e Judicia l Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For informat ion, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATIO N One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60 606-4650 (312) 236- SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales CODILIS & ASSOCIATES , P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.c slegal.com Attorney File No. 14-25-03240 Attorney ARDC No. 004680 02 Case Number: 2025FC84 TJSC#: 45-2090

NOTE: Pur su ant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Pla intiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2025FC84 I3277661 (The Review Dec. 9, 16, 23, 2025)

Office of the Recorder of the Deeds of Whiteside County, Illinois Identification of recording: Document No. 3575-2004. NOW THEREFORE, unless you file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case, on or before January 8, 2026, A JUDGMENT OR DECREE BY DEFAULT MAY BE TAKEN AGAINST YOU FOR THE RELIEF ASKED IN THE COMPLAINT. E-filing is now mandatory with limited exceptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider. Visit http://efile.illinoiscourts. gov/service-providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider. If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://illinois courts gov/self-help or talk with your local circuit clerk's office. If you cannot e-file, you may be able to get an exemption that allows you to file in-person or by mail. Ask your circuit clerk for more information or visit www.illinoislegal aid.org For information about defending yourself in a court case (including filing an appearance or fee waiver), or to apply for free legal help, go to www.illinoislegalaid.org You can also ask your local circuit clerk's office for a fee waiver application. PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTIO N PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOS E. Lender Legal PLLC 1800 Pembrook Drive, Suite 250 Orlando, Flori da 32810 Tel: (407) 730-4644

Service Emails: mjdiaz @lenderlegal.com EService@LenderLegal.com LLS15642-IL - GARCIA s/ Meaghan J. Diaz de Villegas, Esq. Meaghan J. Diaz de Villegas, Esq. Counsel of Record for Plaintiff ARDC # 6340688 December 9, 16, 23, 2025

Tuesday, Dec. 9

Girls bowling

Kewanee 2,006, Erie-Prophetstown 1,836: Mia Trent’s 407 led the Panthers.

Boys wrestling

Oregon 49, Erie-Prophetstown 24: Isaiah Perez, Carson Benesh and Jasper Messenger had pins for Oregon in the win as the Hawks got out to a 37-0 lead. Zack Lawson and Caleb Reymer had pins for the Panthers.

Wednesday, Dec. 10

Boys wrestling

Erie-Prophetstown 52, Polo 15: E-P’s Noah Wetzell, Conner Johnson and Easton Halloway had wins in the victory. Ryder Faivre, Kaenyn McCaren and Angle Lopez had wins for Polo.

Morrison 48, Monmouth-Roseville 19: Cael Wright, Eli Modglin, Mason Grismore, Caleb Modglin and Caleb Carroll won their matches for Morrison.

Morrison 47, Sherrard 36: Cael Wright, Waylon Phelps, Eli Modglin, Jaken Updike, Caleb Modglin and Caleb Carroll had wins for the Mustangs.

Boys bowling

Rock Island 3,327, Erie-Prophetstown 2,667: Chance Anderson led the Panthers with a 549, and Brice Howell added a 526 in the road setback.

Thursday, Dec. 11

Boys wrestling

Lena-Winslow 56, Morrison 23: Earning pins for Morrison were Caleb Modglin, Eli Modglin and Waylon Phillips. Cael Wright had a technical fall.

Morrison 59, Amboy 24: Ethan Bush, Caleb Carroll, Trevor Tipton and Caleb Modglin had pins for Morrison, and Mason Grismore added a tech fall.

Caiden Heath had a pin for Amboy.

Boys bowling

Erie-Prophetstown 2,592, St. Bede 2,485: Zach Phillips led the Panthers with a 514 series, and Brice Howell added a 498.

Saturday, Dec. 13

Boys wrestling Riverdale invite: Morrison’s Waylon Phelps finished as runner-up at the Jim Boyd Invite after falling to Rock Falls’ Logan Thome. The Mustangs took 10th as a team with 93 points. Morrison’s Cael Wright (120 pounds) also was a runner-up and Jaken Updike was third at 132.

Looking to make a move

Jessie Otten - Shaw Local News Network Erie-Prophetstown’s Lauren Abbott is defended by Newman’s Gisselle Martin during the Dec. 11 game. The Panthers lost to the visiting Comets 38-22.

Newman defeats scrappy Erie-Prophetstown

The Newman Comets entered Thursday night’s Three Rivers East Athletic Conference matchup at Erie-Prophetstown averaging 60 points per game.

A scrappy group of Panthers made sure that didn’t happen.

But behind a team effort, the Comets were able to grind out a 38-22 win.

Gisselle Martin led the Comets (7-2, 2-0 TRAC East) with 16 points, hitting six of 10 free throws in the win.

Aubrey Huisman’s 12 points led E-P (4-4, 1-2).

Holding on to a 17-12 halftime lead, Martin said the team just needed to stay calm and stay together after a rough first half.

“We started just rushing things. Rushing our shots, rushing passes,” she said. “It got to the point where we just needed to stay together.”

The approach led to a bit more breathing room in the third quarter with a 15-10

lead. Brooklyn Smith hit two 3-pointers as five Comets scored in the frame.

Newman sealed the win in the fourth quarter as E-P did not score after the Comets led 32-22 through three quarters.

The Panthers slowed the game to a crawl on offense and used their height and athleticism on defense.

“Honestly, they played pretty well. I would say they used their height against us,” Martin said. “We don’t really have that much height. We just had to box out and try our best to get the rebounds.”

On a night in which it seemed like there was a lid on the basket at times, Newman’s defense helped make a difference. The Comets had just four turnovers while E-P had 17 giveaways. Newman was 15 of 30 at the free-throw line.

“It’s really important because if your shots aren’t going in, the only next step is defense,” Martin said. “Us just communicating on the court and staying together and talking, it really helped us toward the end of the game.”

The Comets also stayed together as a

team after coach Herb Martin’s night ended after he was issued two straight technical fouls after a Newman basket late in the third quarter.

Newman’s Elaina Allen, who had six points, said it was a tough night shooting, but the team’s morale was still there.

“You’re going to have those nights, but you have to find a way to fight through it,” she said. “I think we found that in our defense.”

E-P coach Chris Brown credited Newman after the win.

“Hats off to Newman, they’re a very good team,” he said. “They’re wellcoached, they shoot the ball extremely well. And they’re a bad matchup for us. They run the ball, they space you out, they play good defense and they’re good offensively.”

Brown said his team has been playing good defense all season.

“We’re athletic enough to be very good defensively,” he said. “I thought if we can hold them under 40 ... I think we can get it. Now offensively, we weren’t

very good. So hats off to their defense.

“Defensively, our effort’s good. But I think it can be better.”

E-P also had too many fouls and turnovers, Brown said.

“I think we’ll give them a little better game next time,” he said. “I think we’ll be a little bit more prepared.”

Huisman was saddled with four fouls for E-P. She was 9 of 12 at the free-throw line and hit a 3-pointer.

“She does a lot of good things for us,” Brown said. “Proud of Aubrey and the effort she gave. When she’s aggressive, we’re usually better.”

Martin said an ugly win like this can only help the Comets.

“It helps us understand more that we can win together in different situations if things happen,” she said.

Newman is off to a solid start and looks to be among the top teams in the conference.

“I’m very proud of where we’re at. Definitely going to keep going for wins,” Allen said. “We’re just getting started.”

SPORTS

TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY

1936: Hank Luisetti revolutionizes basketball with his one-handed shot.

1973: O.J. Simpson becomes first NFL player with 2,000 rushing yards.

2019: Drew Brees breaks Peyton Manning’s career TD pass record.

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Erie-Prophetstown’s Lauren Punke passes around Newman’s Brooklyn Smith and Anna Propheter on Dec. 11.

EYEING AN OPENING

Erie-Prophetstown unable to get past Newman / 19

Photo by Jessie Otten - Shaw Local News Network

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.